Cape Alava-Sand Point Loop #32 #31

Second trip to Cape Alava with my six year old son. The inland heat dropped off considerably as we hiked out the board walk to the beach and remained pleasant through the weekend. The trail is in great shape and it looks like the blue trex decking will last much longer than the standard cedar. However, I wonder how slick it gets when wet? Mist and fog were a constant presence for the next two days, with patches of blue teasing overhead. Even with record heat in Seattle you can never predict what you will get out on the coast.

We hiked around Canonball island and found the decomposing whale carcass on the southern side. VERY interesting but the smell is not for the squeamish. Another decomposing whale was beached up north near the Ozette river. Seals were on the next island west and barked at all hours. We also ran into otters, deer and plenty of crabs.

In spite of the long drive, permits and daytime crowds I'd rank this hike way up there for anyone wanting to introduce their kids to the wilderness. My son decided next year we should expand the trip a bit and come to Cape Alava from the north via Shi Shi beach.